What to expect in 2012 from Mariners pitcher Erasmo Ramirez

Evaluating the M’s sixth starter

Erasmo Ramirez started the season in the Seattle Mariners bullpen, but it was soon realized that using him as a reliever wasn’t getting the best value from the 22 year old youngster.

So off he went to Tacoma to stretch out his arm.

While with the AAA team, Ramirez played in 7 games going 3-2 with a 3.11 ERA.

It is no secret that the M’s pitching staff this year has been struggling. And with the recent minor injuries to Kevin Millwood and Felix Hernandez and even the loftiest pipe dreams of being competitive this season behind them, the M’s will now use the remainder of the season to bring up some of their youngsters to gain some Major League experience.

There is speculation that the M’s will work with a six man rotation with Ramirez the most likely to get bumped if there is a scheduling conflict of any sorts. This may partially indicate the M’s pending trades this season.

Jason Vargas has to look interesting to a lot of clubs hoping to have a shot at the playoffs.

As much as the M’s like him, he could fetch a good price come the trade deadline. If that happens the M’s would still have a Major League caliber 5 man rotation to drive home the year.

In the interim however, what can be expected from the newest Seattle starter?

1. Mistakes

Ramirez is a good pitcher, but he is still very inexperienced with play at the major league level.

He may have a few tricks to get guys out that work in the minors, but the advanced scouts of the other teams pick those things up and pass them on to the oncoming opponents.

Erasmo Ramirez is looking to stay this time around in Seattle

2. Fatigue

Ramirez is a young guy that should have a good energy level, but he is going to have to adjust to the Mariners travel schedule, which is the most intense in baseball, and the pressure of being in the show on a regular basis.

3. Lone Ranger

When a young pitcher gets in trouble they try to win the matchup by throwing as hard as they can.

After all it is hard to turn around an upper 90’s fastball. However, confidence in the arm is good, but confidence in your defense to pick up a ball is better.

Ramirez will need to learn to allow his teammates to be a part of the process. Something that wasn’t communicated well in his first start.

4. Excitement

As a kid from Nicaragua, he is living the dream he has had since he first picked up a ball. Young guys have a lot to learn, but it is so fun to watch the excitement that is on their face. Excitement the fans could use a dose of.

We all want the M’s to win, but we may be a part of the home field disadvantage in not cheering on our team how we should.

5. Potential

Eric Wedge and Carl Willis are going to be looking for the potential that they saw in Ramirez in his first round with the Mariners to continue.

Is he a viable replacement, at least in the short term, for Jason Vargas or will he also fall victim to the Seattle curse?